Stuck knob removal procedure

[txturbo]

I just started restoration of an MPI-4, will cover it in a separate thread. I came across a seemingly common problem, how to remove a stuck knob without damaging the unobtainium glass or knob?

My MPI-4 had several stuck knobs. No matter how hard I tried I could not get them to pull off. I tried a plastic trim removal tool to give one a gentle push and it was successful but three would not budge. I tried bit of heat, no joy.

The trick was a roll of friction tape and pliers.

1. Wrap the knob with a piece of the tape.

2. Cut 3 or 4 strips a few inches long. Place the strips around the back of the knob between the knob and the felt, folding them over to the front.

3. Bring the pieces of tape together and put a wrap of tape around the bundle.

4. Grab the bundle with some pliers and pull the knob off.

Be careful as you remove the tape, if you did get the felt under the tape try not to damage it.

 

[damacman]

That's genius!

 

[gmc]

Great idea! Just be sure not to pull the component off the table. Ha!

 

[txturbo]

Great idea! Just be sure not to pull the component off the table. Ha!

Or put your hand through the glass!

 

[quartersaw]

For those units that have a metal backing, the backs of two spoons against the faceplate works quite well as a prying mechanism.

 

[parman]

Good job, way to be creative.

 

[twharley]

does anyone know where I can find the plastic piece that is pressed into the metal knobs for a MC2205 the complete knob is not available, all i need is the plastic press in that goes inside of the knob I have 5 knobs but, the plastic is shot .

 

[62caddy]

You mean the plastic insert that secures the knob to the shaft? Those I've never seen available as a separate piece as they're designed as an integral part of the knob. Will probably have to fabricate something or buy a complete knob.

 

[MRL_Audio]

does anyone know where I can find the plastic piece that is pressed into the metal knobs for a MC2205 the complete knob is not available, all i need is the plastic press in that goes inside of the knob I have 5 knobs but, the plastic is shot .

How do this question remotely fit into the OPs post? You’d better served if you posed this question in a separate thread to get some visibility.

 

[texer]

I just started restoration of an MPI-4, will cover it in a separate thread. I came across a seemingly common problem, how to remove a stuck knob without damaging the unobtainium glass or knob?

My MPI-4 had several stuck knobs. No matter how hard I tried I could not get them to pull off. I tried a plastic trim removal tool to give one a gentle push and it was successful but three would not budge. I tried bit of heat, no joy.

The trick was a roll of friction tape and pliers.

1. Wrap the knob with a piece of the tape.

2. Cut 3 or 4 strips a few inches long. Place the strips around the back of the knob between the knob and the felt, folding them over to the front.

3. Bring the pieces of tape together and put a wrap of tape around the bundle.

4. Grab the bundle with some pliers and pull the knob off.

Be careful as you remove the tape, if you did get the felt under the tape try not to damage it.

I use a similar technique/ using appropriate thickness leather. Had not thought of friction tape before.

 

[mozcho]

This is so great! I'm thinking: while the knobs are still removable, would it be a good idea to spray something onto the metal shafts so that we won't need to resort to this step?

 

[Hofvox]

If you are looking for an entire insert then these will work nicely. I have been using them for years with import Aliexpress look-a-like knobs and converting metric McIntosh Knobs to standard shaft. A little Dremmel buzz here and there, a bit of epoxy and you are back in business. Good Luck.

 

[twharley]

Thank You what a great Idea

 

[Searing75]

Ingenious